Maint. 101 for a dummy? Basic advice needed

Submitted by kirkbogle on Fri, 2007-04-13 11:14. 1999 - 2002 Nissan Quest

I noticed crunching" sounds from front tire areas while making sharp turns. Looking into it I discovered the rubber boots that go from the axles to the wheel and cover/protect the conecttion have both come loose.
I can re-attach them, but need to know what next?
Everything inside is greased.
Do I need to completely clean it all, then re-grease?
Are those rubber boots, once re-attached supposed to be filled completely with grease?
Thanks!
Also, if anyone reads this and has an idea about my other posted question, I'd appreciate any pointers!

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Rubber Boots

Submitted by toomanyfumes on Sat, 2007-04-14 16:29.

I don't think you are going to be able to reattach those boots. Yes there is supposed to be grease inside the boots and it's a big mess trying to attach them while they are filled with grease. I just noticed the same thing on my 2001 VIllager. Both sides are ripped all the way around. My mechanic wants to replace both boots. The problem is, how long have they been ripped? If water and salt have gotten in there, you might as well replace the axle/CV assembly while it's apart because the bearing won't last long anyway.

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CV Boots

Submitted by cirrus on Sat, 2007-04-14 19:44.

Typically, if you are hearing any kind of grinding noise when turning, then it means your CV boots have been torn for awhile now and the axle is damaged. The damage is from dirt and moisture deposition into your exposed axle while all the pre-packed grease has leaked out. In this case, you will need to replace the axle and the CV boots. Many shops can offer you an aftermarket axle for a lower cost, but I have heard that they don't last very long. Don't forget you actually have 2 boots on each axle (inner and outer).

On the other hand, if you somehow noticed the cracked boot and it might have only happened recently, the shop could just relace the boots, but like 'toomanyfumes' said, you can't tell if any dirt or moisture have already contaminated the axle.

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